Bethelyn K. Photography

Just One Of The Girls...

2011-04-01T01:25:00.009-04:00

I was so honored to be asked to photograph the "Girl Scouts Bridging" event at the Happhatchee Nature Center. Being a former Girl Scout, I thought I had some idea of what the organization stood for. Dusting off my old ideals and getting into the mind set of helping others did not even prepare me for the beauty of what it all truly meant. As I placed myself in the shadows to take photos and be an observer, I could not help but feel moved by all the practices and beliefs behind this organization. Girls were encouraged to be self sufficient and at the same time, helpful and loving to one another. So many lessons still apply to me as a grown woman. Sharing the love for friendship and nature will never go out of fashion! All of this ceremony was made even more special by the fact that this event took place at one of the most magical places I have found in Florida. The Happehatcee Nature Center is like a fairy tale stuck in time. The beautiful surroundings of the wild forest, met with the loving touch of conservatives, is a place you could envision Miss Havisham having a tea party with characters from "Alice In Wonderland". Preserved and protected by the phenomenon that is Ellen Peterson (pictured in one of the last photos) it is possible to still dance in the wild beauty that is south Florida. My own moment of bravery came when I took a photo...hands free...on the swing bridge that leads over to the yoga hut. I was so nervous but with all the support of the strong girls around me, felt inspired to give it a try. Truly a special day and some of the happiest hours I have spent with my camera, documenting my time with these impressive individuals. Thank you Girl Scouts of Southwest Florida, you helped this lady earn her courage badge. xoxoxoxo

Finding Georgia

2010-06-01T15:54:00.049-04:00

The first time I understood the meaning of the word "art" was as a child when I saw the painting "Red Canna" by Georgia O'Keeffe. That work is a depiction of a flower vibrantly alive with color, emotion and passion. It gave me the insight that an artist could render something as common as a plant to transcend it's form and become personal and deep with meaning. My appreciation for the work of O'Keeffe has continued since that day. It is no coincidence that flowers are among my favorite subjects to photograph. I love looking closely into their world full of texture and color. If you take the time to smell the flowers, you never know what you might find.

Waiting

2010-03-11T13:03:00.008-05:00

"Now I can see you everywhere.
In the trees outside my window,
on the street in the frozen air.
Waiting,
it's a promise.
Waiting,
it's like a dare.

But you are with me,

when you can not be.
I can feel you here
and I can see you everywhere.
I can see you everywhere."

"Thanksgiving"

~Deb Talan

Weekend Bliss

2010-02-19T16:47:00.006-05:00

"Good friends, good books and a sleepy conscience: this is the ideal life. "
~Mark Twain

I thought I would share my recipe on how to begin your weekend the right way, even if you only have ten minutes to yourself. Here are three simple steps that work for me almost every time and how I will be spending my Saturday morning...

1) Open a beautiful book. My choice, the photo book of the film "Marie Antoinette" by Sofia Coppola.
2) Brew a delicious cup of coffee. I am loving coconut macaroon by "Archer Farms".
3) Use a mug that someone you love gave you. Every time I hold the cup that was a gift from my mom, I can't help but think happy thoughts of her.

Here's wishing you a blissful weekend!
xoxox

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

2010-02-13T19:50:00.002-05:00

I "wood heart" you no matter what, no matter where.

xoxox

Tea Party

2010-01-10T14:29:00.016-05:00

Here's wishing a happy 2010 to you and yours! I am so thrilled to start a new year! Just thought I would share what was one of my favorite moments of my holiday season, a tea party with my niece. Perhaps the best party I attended last year. Cheers!

Wonder Dog

2009-11-22T14:43:00.033-05:00

It was three months to the day that we had picked up Buster from his operation. It seems like it was a lifetime ago. When I recall the weak and tired state that our dog was in at that time, it crushes my heart. The discovery of Buster's malignant tumor, which was the size of a tennis ball, sent us reeling. Even though he is 10 years old, he has always acted like a puppy and showed no signs of illness. The situation was not one that could be ignored and we had to act swiftly. Under the great care of the skillful surgeons at Oakland Veterinary Referral Services, Buster's procedure went extremely well and the tumor was successfully removed. In just this short time, all the fur where he was shaved has grown back and only a tiny scar shows evidence of the 15 stitches. In honoring his recovery, it was important to us that we spend the day with our dog doing something that would make his tail wag. Since the option of taking him to a buffet restaurant was not possible, we settled on going to "Dog Beach". Truly this was one of the best days I have spent living in our new state. I smiled so much my face hurt. Upon arrival, Buster started out cautiously testing the water at the shore but by the end of the day, he was running down the beach looking like a dog that had kicked cancer in the butt. Which is exactly what he has done. Looks like we will be celebrating this fact many more days to come out our new favorite spot.

Serene

2009-11-10T22:20:00.004-05:00

“Nothing can bring you peace but yourself.”

~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Very true Mr. Emerson! I might add that taking time to smell the flowers doesn't hurt either;) Wishing you all a calm and peaceful week.

xoxo

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-30T14:24:00.024-04:00

It's that very special time of year when something wicked your way comes. Coming to terms with the fact I am going to miss my annual family tradition of trick or treating with my brother, niece and nephew. In the future I will make sure to plan my trips home so I don't miss it again! As for this year, to fill the void I will indulge myself with too much candy corn and all my favorite things Halloween!!! Here's a list of what gets me howling this time of year;)

Listen Up: Even if you aren't planning to camp out at your local theater in breathless anticipation of the new "Twilight" movie, you should rush to get a copy of the soundtrack. This album features an impressive gathering of artists including Death Cab for Cutie and Bon Iver with St. Vincent. Playing these tunes might not conjure up a sexy vampire but it does set the mood for a mysterious and smoldering evening.

Watch It: Hands down my all time favorite scary movie, Rosemary's Baby. Mia Farrow is so luminous in this movie that upon my first time seeing it as a kid, she earned an instant spot on my personal "Female Fixation" list. I think I have suffered Fiance' Phil through seeing it so many times that he can recite the lines just as easily as I can.

Maintain Your Decor: I am seriously bewitched by the haunting works of Vee Speers. The images from her "Birthday Party" series are mesmerizing and unnerving. I would do ghoulish things to acquire one of these works of art.

Apply Liberally: The trick-or-treaters in my neighborhood will be walking the streets in 90 degree weather. All this heat is making it hard for me to pull out the dark nail polish colors I usually love for this time of year. That is why I am bloodthirsty for the new color Jade by Chanel. Also, it's green, which always has me under it's spell.

Have a safe and spooktacular Halloween!!!!

Carry It With You

2009-10-29T16:32:00.023-04:00

During an afternoon walk while I was thinking of people I care about, so many miles away, my eyes were drawn to the way the light fell upon a seemingly ordinary shrub. There was something about the way the shadows formed within the shape of the leaves that reminded me of one of my favorite poems. So as I often do when something catches my attention, I snapped a picture.

The next day as I passed the same bush, I paused when I saw that it had been clipped and trimmed and no longer resembled the foliage that brought the words of ee cummings to my mind. When I returned home, I mentioned the scenario to Fiance' Phil and he said, "At least you took a picture of what it looked like when you did." I thought about what he said and how while that was true, the images that fill my albums and I save on my computer are beyond valuable to me but a picture could be lost or erased and gone forever.

What I realized then was that, it isn't the physical evidence in life that bonds but the memories and moments burned into the heart. The people that I love who bring goodness into my world are always close to me, no matter how many states divide us. The landscape might change and the images of our worlds might be different but there is nothing that can cut away love.

i carry your heart with me

i carry your heart with me(i carry it in
my heart)i am never without it(anywhere
i go you go,my dear; and whatever is done
by only me is your doing,my darling)
i fear
no fate(for you are my fate,my sweet)i want
no world(for beautiful you are my world,my true)
and it's you are whatever a moon has always meant
and whatever a sun will always sing is you

here is the deepest secret nobody knows

(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life;which grows
higher than the soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart

i carry your heart(i carry it in my heart)

~ee cummings

Away We Went

2009-10-19T20:00:00.016-04:00

Ohhh...what a long strange trip it has been.

One U-Haul, two days and countless coffees later...Fiance' Phil, Buster and I have finally arrived and settled at our new home in Florida. The weeks leading up to our eventual move were filled with tears, laughter, sadness, heartbreak and nervous excitement. The extreme emotions and physical effects of moving took quite a toll on me. The bruises are finally gone and my heart has been healed more everyday by the well-wishing, love and support of my family and friends. It is experiences like these that push me to be a stronger person than I ever thought I could be. I am now focused on enjoying every second of the new adventures waiting for our family. I am leaving anything negative behind me and allowing myself to be happy and live in the moment. I hope that part of our new life will bring me here more often, with images to share.

The vintage suitcase that Buster is lounging with is by my friends at Bright Wall Studios. I am so in love with it and use it to store/display my vintage camera collection. Not only are they crazy talented but also happen to be some of the nicest people I have met in a long time. Nothing better than supporting local artists and finding something original and exciting.

Off I go to find some new happiness to share. Take great care and have a lovely week.

xoxoxo

Through The Storm

2009-08-12T22:12:00.004-04:00

"Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass. It's about learning to dance in the rain."

~Vivian Green

This is one of my mom's favorite quotes and reminds me of her so much. I just want to truly thank everyone that sent me kind wishes and positive thoughts on my injury and recent events. Thank you for helping me remember it can be possible to dance through a storm, even with a bum leg;) xoxox

Remain Calm

2009-07-21T15:59:00.031-04:00

To say the last few months have been a challenge would not be giving them enough credit. The last few months have been THE challenge of my journey thus far. Without going into details and attempting to channel "Debbie Downer", I will ask that you take my word for it. Just when I thought, "This has to be it! Now comes some good stuff!" I was knocked back on my behind. Quite literally. A nasty spill has landed me in a very unfashionable leg brace and teetering around on crutches. I have been commanded to a solid week of sitting as much as possible and while that does provide a much needed rest, it's not exactly the tropical, beach vacation I was hoping for. Just over two days into my lock down and I have watched six movies, caught up on all my TV shows and finished a book. Under the great care of Fiance' Phil, I am looking at things from the sunny side of my incident. Which involves entertaining myself with the things I mentioned above and spending so much unexpected time with my man and our dog. In keeping with focusing on the good, I would like to share my opinion on some good things with you!

LISTEN UP: The latest album by Phoenix is the soundtrack to my summer. I truly love this band. Not too mention the lead singer happens to be with the lovely and genius Sofia Coppola. This couple is very high at the top of my list for dream dinner guests.

WATCH IT: Every so often I see a movie that haunts me for days after. Without question Let The Right One In did just that. It isn't just because this film involves the ever intriguing subject of vampires but because there were so many frames that could be paused and turned into a perfectly composed photograph. Be warned, there are instances of violence and the corn syrup must have been in high demand on that set. Yet, I found that the love story of Oskar and Eli plays with so much tender vulnerability that I was less affected by the scenes of gore and more by the innocence of young love. Oh, and Fiance' Phil would have me inform you there are subtitles but he liked it so much that he wasn't that irked by it.

MAINTAIN YOUR DECOR: I have been looking for ages for a perfect wall hanging to mount outside my bedroom door. After my grand fall and being forced into slowing my life down, I decided that this lovely sentiment is a perfect message to see as we start our day.

APPLY LIBERALLY: I am always seeking a great makeup concealer. Call off the search team. I not only found but am reaping the rewards of Benefit Erase Paste. It works for all imperfections and because a little goes along way I think the jar and I will be getting to know each other very well.

And now, here some images from the last month that remind me of happy moments and feeling calm... xoox

The view these from my couch these days....

Someone very sweet gave me these;)

"Two Lads Winery" in Traverse City...I approve!!!

Look what our little plants gave us!!!

Irish coffee after dinner with Fiance' Phil is always a treat.

An evening of watching fireworks on a blanket with someone you love is absolute magic.

I love summer!!!!! I wish it could last forever!

The Little Joys

2009-06-17T22:02:00.011-04:00

I have been trying to live by the mantra..."Find the little joys in life." Really this isn't always the easiest road to travel when you are having a bad day. Interestingly enough, I do find that on my worst days, I don't just take these things for granted but stop and appreciate the joy that they brought into the moment. Eventually all the little joys gang up on you and suddenly, you had a lovely day. Dang it, I was supposed to be having a bad day! ;) So here are some of the things that have made me smile recently...

1) The miracle of nature. I have always wanted to grow things that I could eat. Going all the way back to childhood this is something that fascinated me and in my mind seemed terribly hard to achieve. I saw my neighbors struggle over their gardens for hours, sometimes to only produce a vegetable or two. My parents felt the grocery store provided all the bounty without the work, as many people do, myself included. Yet this summer Fiance' Phil and I finally had a tiny spot of soil behind our townhouse and we dared to attempt growing our first tomatoes. A staple of all our summer meals. As I was standing on our deck one balmy evening last week, something urged me to look at our plants. Even though everyday we stand around them and check for new growth or dead leaves. I felt compelled to look once again. Suddenly, there she was. A tiny, green, beautiful tomato just hanging off the plant. Of course I went hysterically giddy and screamed for Fiance' Phil to come see. Confirmed. A tomato has been sighted. I have what some might think are rather easy life goals. One of them is to grow tomatoes. As we prepare our first meal with one, I look forward to checking that off my list. Grow our own tomatoes...check.

2) Dior, beautiful, lovely Dior. I can't say enough positive adjectives for the eyeshadow quad that has become a part of my daily routine. The colors are all so workable and can be applied softly for day or layered for night. I refuse to believe that this palette won't work for everyone. It's just that good!

3) Birthday Cake Candle. I know it's not for everyone but I will testify to the joys of a sugary, sweet, cake infused scent flowing through my powder room during bath time. It's so over the top girly and comforting. I mean...there's confetti in it. I rest my case.

4) Late summer walks with Fiance' Phil and our dog Buster. During the harsh winter months we reminisce about taking these long and relaxing evening walks. The light is beautiful and shadows follow us everywhere. The shadow that always makes me smile the most is the silhouette of my family walking side by side with nothing to do but talk about our day and discuss all of the good things we look forward to happening. It's pure bliss.

5) "Where the Wild Things Are" upcoming film. I think me and about a bazillion people are in anticipation of this one. Who doesn't love and feel connected to the classic by Maurice Sendak. I have always included this book in my baby shower gifts. The trailer for this film puts a lump in my throat so much that I don't know if my heart can take the beauty of this movie. Spike Jonez is a genius and the music of Arcade Fire flowing in the background is too perfect to believe. I am waiting with baited breath to be blown away and transported back to childhood.

Here's wishing you a lovely weekend full of little joys around every corner.

Summer Time and the Livin' Is Easy

2009-05-27T23:11:00.016-04:00

I truly hope everyone had a weekend that was lovely and relaxing. Nothing like an extra day off and great temperatures to get you in a good mood.

My Fiance' Phil and I always look forward to any opportunity that arises which allows us to take our niece and nephews on a little adventure. This weekend the five of us packed into our vehicle and headed to the "Heritage Festival" in Rochester Hills. There was a car show, crafts and fun pioneer based activities like sack races, hay jumping and walking on stilts.

Fiance' Phil had to point out how much I seemed to enjoy the demonstration of old-time laundry. Fine, I was busted. I have a laundry completing obsession that obviously would have been present even back in the days of bonnets and throwing buckets into a creek. Beyond the activities for the clean freaks, in our little group there was plenty of ice cream sharing going on and the knock-knock jokes were on fire!!!

Isabella said her favorite part of the day was when the moving statue lady sprinkled her hand with glitter. Ethan liked the sawing exhibit and Jackson liked dancing to the "rock and roll band!" What I liked best was seeing the beautiful, smiling faces of the people I love so much and sharing laughs all afternoon.

Hope

2009-04-27T19:30:00.008-04:00

"Hope is the thing with feathers, that perches in the soul, and sings the tune without words and never stops at all."

~Emily Dickinson

Spring has arrived and along with the season comes the vision of new blossoms and vibrant colors. All of this beauty has me feeling hopeful...and it feels really good. Just this week I discovered a story that in my opinion defines "hope". This is such a beautiful story and I have thought about it often since hearing it. I promise I would not ask you to watch a video (please click the link under the photo) if it wasn't worth it...especially about of all things, football!!! I can't recall the last time a story has moved me so much.

I hope that sharing this might remind those that have forgot, how important the strength of hope can be. If you can't find it for yourself maybe you can help someone else discover it in their own life.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52AOPQvCTv4

Serious Business

2009-03-31T19:56:00.008-04:00

So, everyone has heard the timeless joke about women and chocolate. Well, I think everyone needs to stop laughing because...IT'S NOT FUNNY!! In my humble opinion, chocolate is very serious business. For me, a delicious piece of chocolat can take a bad day and turn it around faster than you can peel away a piece of foil. The Easter Bunny is coming soon to a basket near you and if you want to fill yours with near genius, might I suggest you take a trip to GAYLE'S in Royal Oak.

Do not be fooled by the whimsical pink walls when you enter this lovely space, candy is very serious business here. Even my personal favorite, the 35mm chocolate camera commands an earnest respect for its attention to detail. While times might be little tough for all, a piece of quality chocolate is a decadent experience that won't leave you with buyers remorse. After a visit with a carmel truffle, you might just find yourself smiling and feeling luxurious. That is very serious business to schedule indeed. ; )

Melanie

2009-03-10T18:40:00.010-04:00

Without question, my session with the lovely Melanie was some of the most fun I have had taking photographs yet. Melanie was a major trooper, braving freezing temperatures and crazy wind gusts, all while holding a smile. I have known Ms. Mel since she was a little girl and when asked if I would do senior photos for her, I was absolutely thrilled! Melanie is not just smart and witty but gorgeous to boot. Melanie is embarking on the next phase of her life and judging by the sparkle in her eyes, it's going to be a very exciting journey indeed! :)

Clearly...

2009-02-25T19:35:00.003-05:00

"That's the way things come clear. All of a sudden. And then you realize how obvious they've been all along."

~Madeleine L'engle

So let's be very clear on one thing...I am ready for spring!!! Hang in there everyone waiting to bid farewell to winter. Sunny skies and blossoms are surely on their way.

Tickled by Pink

2009-02-12T21:36:00.008-05:00

Green, my true love, do not be jealous because the lovely Pink has captured my attention for the moment. A long winter and a brief flirtation with high temperatures have my heart aching for sunshine and spring. It also happens to be the week of Valentines Day, a personal cherished holiday. In the last year February 14 has become dearer to me because it marks the anniversary of my engagement. Hence, this post is dedicated to the delicate, feminine inspiration that is the color pink. When I think of the hue, spring flowers, Valentine decorations, my niece Isabella and her love for the shade come to mind! It was a Miss Dior Cherie bottle, my most spritzed fragrance that was the inspiration behind the décor in my powder room. Imagine my delight when I discovered my fave director, Sophia Coppola, teamed up with the brand to direct the decadent ad campaign for the fragrance. The result is pure eye candy and total inspiration. While I won’t dare pretend that I could spend my days like the lovely model of this advertisement, running around Paris in designer frocks and floating into the sky with a handful of balloons. I have made an effort to wear a more vibrant pink lipstick, placed tulips throughout my home and will absolutely be indulging in anything frosted in the shade! SO, to you and yours, Happy Valentines Day and I hope you find a little bit of pink in your day. Xoxo.

Alex

2009-01-29T18:15:00.009-05:00

Every once in awhile, I have the wonderful experience of meeting a young man that restores my hope that being a gentlemen is not a thing of the past! Working with Alex and his family was a fantastic experience! Alex has such a bright future ahead of him and I wish him all the luck in the world, something tells me, he probably doesn't need any!!!

A Wish For The New Year

2009-01-20T21:48:00.006-05:00

This message might be a bit late to state but happy new year to everyone! This year my single resolution is to find more peace with each waking day. No matter how rocky the terrain, dark the night or inclement the weather, I will do my best to find calm and stillness among the moments that challenge me. I also wish, for those of you that might need it, that tranquility comes to you and yours.

Ava and Blake

2008-12-16T18:01:00.007-05:00

On a very cold day in November, I had the true pleasure of photographing my cousin Nicole's children, Ava and Blake. Even though they are twins, their personalities shine brightly as individuals, yet compliment each other perfectly. The most shared trait, and one that you can't ignore, is their stunning, blue eyes! I had so much fun spending the day with them and look forward to our next visit.

Jackson

2008-11-24T17:27:00.010-05:00

I am so lucky to have the honor of photographing my nephew Jackson! I get so much inspiration and joy from our sessions. Not only is he a genius, hilarious and a dapper dresser, he also happens to have one of the sweetest faces I have ever seen. Jack is truly a blessing in my life and a constant source of joy. There is nothing I look forward to more than the years of laughter ahead and being invited to capture his delightful journey.

Precious Thing...Halloween Family Tradition

2008-11-06T18:10:00.015-05:00

My brother and I had one very serious tradition in our youth and that was...trick or treating together. Sadly, as we grew up this yearly event wasn't quite on our agenda. I always reflected fondly of those memories and didn't realize that it was just temporarily on hold.

In the last few years, the tradition has been reborn, only now it is my niece and nephew dragging their bags of candy into the night. Without fail, every October 31, we march like a tiny troupe and collect sweets while looking forward to walking up the driveway of the scariest house on the block. This year we joined my new family Phil, Kevin, Darlene and Jackson at the home of my mother-in-law Marianne. This is one night that I sincerely get excited about every year. I hope that one day, I might have my own little trick-or-treater to add to the party!

FLASHBACK!!! Here I am...in one of my faveorite costumes ever! Looks like my niece and I share the love for tu-tus : ) I wish I still had that headband!

Happy Halloween!!!

2008-10-31T13:14:00.007-04:00

All In A Golden Afternoon

2008-10-24T18:12:00.013-04:00

"You can learn a lot of things from the flowers, for especially in the month of June. There’s a wealth of happiness and romance, all in the golden afternoon.

"All In A Golden Afternoon"

~Alice In Wonderland

Looking through images and found this sunshine filled moment from the summer. The weather here is turning from fall to winter at a faster pace with each passing day.

This one is for Jackson and his recent discovery of Alice In Wonderland:)

Have a lovely weekend!

Tea for Two...Too Lovely for Words

2008-10-22T18:10:00.037-04:00

If you are ever lucky enough to receive an invite from Anneliesa and Aryana to attend their tea party, I highly suggest you do. I have had the pleasure of photographing these lovely sisters twice now and my only hope is that I get asked to spend another day in their company soon. To my friend Michelle, better known as "mom" to the girls, thank you for choosing me to capture the journey of your exceptional girls. The pleasure is truly mine.

Happy Sweetist Day!!!

2008-10-17T17:38:00.010-04:00

I hope your day has a happy ending! Better luck to you on Valentines Day Mr. Bill!

Precious Thing...Jumping For Joy

2008-10-15T23:33:00.007-04:00

My niece does this best. This experience that is jumping for joy. Here is what I know, no matter how cynical a human being you may be...this reflex has happened to you, at least once in your lifetime. There are situations that produce such a strong level of positive emotion, that you have no choice but to leap from the ground in an expression of happiness. Miss Isabella does it on a daily basis. If her french fries are that good or I if I let her try my lip gloss, or if during one of our walks, she finds a beautiful ray of light. A jump for joy will occur. There are so many things that I have learned from her. Perfecting my jump for joy... is truly one of the most important of all.

Wisdom In A Cup Of Tea

2008-10-10T11:31:00.011-04:00

I haven't posted anything this week because I have been feeling very under the weather. I hope everyone is taking their vitamins and really good care of themselves! I have some fun sessions coming up and can't wait to share the photos. Have a wonderful weekend!

Oh, the Places You'll Go!

2008-09-26T19:09:00.014-04:00

I remember it all so well. The photo by the fake window. It was in my senior year of high school and my mother wanted nothing more than to provide me with beautiful senior photos. At the time our definition of "beautiful" was quite different. Being camera shy and never one to conform, a debate ensued in our household regarding how I would be photographed in these very important images. Traditional head shot...FINE. Outdoors and looking happy...FINE. Standing in front of the fake window and looking wistful...NOT FINE!!!

For some reason, I was violently opposed to this particular setting that my Mother was just in love with. What was I looking at? Why is the window....a fake window? The debate raged on until I found myself standing in front of the this false view. Then in the studio, under hushed tones, a deal was set. If I did the "fake window photo", I would be granted a heavy reward. I don't recall what the terms were to this day, but they must have been pretty good! I agreed to the verbal contract. The first photo you see below is physical proof. I am certain my Mother had the best intentions with her wish. All that she hoped for was pictures of me that she could share with friends and family, a visual way to express her pride. How can you deny the beauty in that?

If I could do it all again. I wish those photos reflected more of my individualism at the time. On the verge of the rest of your life and embarking upon all that is exciting and new. There is so much opportunity to capture the essence of a young person.

My only hope when I do senior photos is that I produce images they will be happy to look at for a lifetime. A documentation of that moment in time. The moment before it all changes. I was more certain of who I was at 19 than I could ever be now. Even though that person has gone and changed and I might cringe at the ideas she had. I still wish the moment was captured so that I could see her face a bit more clearly. So that I could see her eyes shine.

I have a wonderful time getting to know my sassy, senior friends and feeding off the energy they give. An all time favorite session was with the brilliant Cameron Alman. I hope his new journey is as fearless and open as he approached his photos. A wonderful soul and a joy to work with.

THIS IS BAD....

THESE MAKE ME HAPPY!!!

Falling For Cards

2008-09-19T17:10:00.005-04:00

Can you feel it? The air is a bit more crisp. The light is starting to change just ever so softly and the leaves are following right along with the whole plan. I adore fall. It's like...Fall is the Summer's more elegant and sophisticated sister, full of mystery and magic.

Fall is also arguably the best time of the year to take photos. I hope that I am nothing but busy during this season capturing memorable moments for anyone that will let me!!!

A natural progression of photography for me has been using those photos in correspondence materials. Holiday cards, announcements,"Save the Date", birthday cards and on and on. The possibilities are endless!!! I love collaborating with clients to get the exact look they want in the cherished messages they are sending to loved ones.

For anyone interested, I have a "Falling for Cards" special rate for holiday cards. Please e-mail me directly for more information. Now is the best time to get started on your holiday messages before all the chaos of the season begins.

Precious Thing...Products of Beauty

2008-09-15T22:27:00.024-04:00

"I'm tired of all this nonsense about beauty being only skin-deep. That's deep enough. What do you want—an adorable pancreas?"

~ Jean Kerr

At first I hesitated having "Products of Beauty" as one of my "Precious Things" post. There are so many serious and dismal things happening in the world all around us that I hesitated at how frivolous this sounds. I am not so self absorbed to think that anything I may share in this space is far reaching or influencing (except perhaps to my four friends that read this!) but I do realize that by putting myself "out there" I am sharing myself and who I am. I don't want to give the impression I am shallow, I only chose that quote above because it made me laugh and it's so wrong!

I believe that beauty is found in the differences of every person I meet. "Perfection" is something that can now be attained by anyone with a significant bank account. How boring is that? I have discovered the most impressive beauty is found in those traits that are so unique, you can only associate them with the exact person they belong to. A crooked smile, a traffic stopping laugh, a pair of eyes that aren't the same color. This beauty is the kind the sticks with you. A gorgeousness that comes immediately to mind when you think of that individual.

If I must allow myself to be truly honest...beauty products are a substantial part of my existence. Anyone who has met me for a total of ten minutes will confirm this. Being that, at this point in our acquaintance, enough time has elapsed for me to reach for a lip gloss from the heaving makeup bag in my purse. So...let's put our worries aside for just a moment and focus on something that may be shallow, but can turn my good mood into bad with the swipe of an eye shadow.

Where do I start? I LOVE beauty products. The packaging, the colors, the scent! I love playing and painting with makeup. What I live for the most is when my friends allow (or I beg) for me to apply their makeup. It is a true bonding act and I never get tired of swapping tips or sharing what new product I am having a love affair with.

Products that I am loving right now are: Chanel foundation, Shu Uemura "Pleasure of Japanese Bath" (pictured below), Nars eyeshadow and Giorgio Armani lip glosses. I highly recommend them all.

Will a lipstick change your life? Will a mascara make you a better person? Can perfume solve your problems? Of course not!!!! The right pink lipstick could make your day a little sunnier though. For that, beauty products are precious indeed.

Ethan and Isabella

2008-09-10T18:13:00.014-04:00

Attempting to describe the of love I have for my niece and nephew is futile. I could never arrange any set of words together, that would do this feeling justice. If I will say any thing at all, it is that the joy they bring to my life is greater than the sum of every smile, every laugh, every good moment I have ever lived. I am the proudest aunt.

Nana (better known as Mom to me;) and I took Mr. Ethan and Ms. Isabella on an outing to capture their good looks. Sadly, the session only last 25 minutes. (Note to photographers...when working with children...your own relatives included...pick a location with easily accessible restroom facilities! haha!) I did manage to capture a few images of the day and wanted to share them here.

Precious Thing...The Shores of Erie International Wine Festival

2008-09-07T21:33:00.023-04:00

This weekend I had the extreme pleasure of discovering a new "Precious Thing". Being the wonderful Fiance' Phil that he is, my partner-in-crime sought out an activity for us that featured...wine...food...music...and beautiful views of the water. I think I was sold at "wine festival" but the other stuff had me grabbing my camera and bouncing out the door faster than usual. "The Shores of Erie International Wine Festival" (http://www.soewinefestival.com/) was such a pleasure to attend. I have never seen so many bottles of vino and people casually walking around with lovely, stemmed glasses in hand. The wine was excellent and all of the attendees were friendly and relaxed. I will surely be making a trip back next year. Only this time, we will be armed with a crew of wine lovers and a driver that is allergic to grapes, so that the rest of us can freely indulge as we please.

I will literally see this in my dreams....

Even Angels Need Luck

2008-09-04T23:27:00.006-04:00

This Friday, Fiance' Phil and his team "The Angels", go into battle for the final game of the championship. I will be wishing him luck exactly 13 times, the number that has always been the luckiest for me!!! If you have a moment, send a wish their way. GO ANGELS!!!!

These Precious Things...Nature

2008-09-03T20:17:00.008-04:00

"Remember, remember, this is now, and now, and now. Live it, feel it, cling to it. I want to become acutely aware of all I've taken for granted."

~Sylvia Plath

There are so many reasons that I am in love with photography. The first thing that I recognize the most, is that I tend to witness life from a searching perspective. I try to appreciate the beauty in tiny, unsuspecting moments. I believe if I wasn't always looking for an image to create, I might have missed these instances.

I remember my first experiences with the visual medium so clearly. I believe my first photo session started at 10 years old. My luminous cousin Lauren (see below)can attest to the hilarious costume ideas and set-ups that I would suffer her through. If I was evil and granted permission (ha ha) I might post them here strictly for evidence sake. There was frequent bad makeup and insane hats in the mix. My parents had bought me a tiny pink camera and I could hardly wait for the pictures to be developed with every roll I finished. Riding my bike up to the corner store only to hear, "Two more days until they are ready." An agony of defeat only felt before one-hour photo was created.

Later, an old video camera with no film (it did make a serious recording noise) found in a closet of my parents home, became my tool of documentation. If, the camera had actual film...you would surely be watching a post of the kids in my neighborhood and our music video version of "Hungry Like The Wolf" by Duran Duran.

It didn't matter if the pictures were horrible or if there were no pictures at all! What had my attention was the fact that I could try to freeze time exactly the way I saw it, as I wanted it to be. It might be a normal Tuesday afternoon but we turned our family basements into production studios and movie sets. I could not WAIT until the date on my pickup slip indicated that I could see what the click of my shutter button turned those moments into.

I hope to post a series of photos to represent this notion called, "These Precious Things". They might not always be profound, but this moves me to keep searching for what I might take for granted, the things I love in life that even on my worst day, make me smile. I also hope that you might learn something more about me along the way.

I start this series with...Nature.

What could be more beautiful and free than a wild flower blooming, with no caution, straight from the ground and into all of our senses? Simple, wondrous, precious.

If you feel the urge to share what you find precious, PLEASE do so. I am always looking for inspiration and what is precious to you, might become just that much more to me.

xoxoxox.
bethelyn

Summer is still here...and always in my heart

2008-08-29T10:15:00.020-04:00

"I know I am but summer to your heart, and not the full four seasons of the year."
~Edna St. Vincent Millay

Have a lovely holiday weekend everyone!!!

Ray Ban's and Baseball...

2008-08-26T15:53:00.014-04:00

These two things remind me of my future husband, Phil. Good luck this week in your baseball playoffs!!! Buster and I are rooting for you!!!

Lovely Lauren

2008-08-23T18:40:00.023-04:00

Recently I had the incredible honor of shooting headshots for my lovely, lovely cousin Lauren. I can't begin to express the fun that was had that day. As you can see from the images, she is a true beauty and an inspiring woman. I am so proud of her!!!

Welcome!! It's so nice to have you here!

2008-08-18T18:22:00.030-04:00

I am really thrilled to have this space where I can share photographs with my friends, family and anyone who might be interested in my work. Along with this blog, I am officially launching my photography business, "Bethelyn K Photography". In the not too distant future, I also hope to have a website that will provide more detailed information on my services.

It seems only fitting that as I embark on my new venture, I would begin my first portrait post with images of the brilliant, gorgeous and super-silly, Jackson! I am so fortunate that not only do I get to be "Aunt Beff" to this wonder of the world, I get to take momentous photos of Jack as he grows and continues to become one of the most special people I will ever know in my lifetime. Thanks must be given to Jackson's parents (and my nearest and dearest friends), Darlene and Kevin. Thank you both for giving me the honor of capturing Jack's journey and supporting, encouraging and cracking me up every step of the way. I can't wait for all the photos and memories to come!!!

What do you love about summer?

2008-08-18T13:24:00.014-04:00

As fall is nearly upon us, let's all take a deep breath and focus on what we love about the summer...first thing that comes into my mind, flowers!!!